Everton are likelier to sign right-back Brooke Norton-Cuffy than Hull City, according to reports. The 22-year-old Englishman has been linked with a move back to England, with Everton and Hull City in the picture to sign him. Over the past few months, Norton-Cuffy has constantly been linked with a move back to England. Late in the January transfer window, Sport Witness covered that the Toffees were competing with West Ham and were in a much better position to sign him. However, David Moyes' side never took advantage of the situation then, failing to ever make a formal move. Now, a chance is presenting itself again for Everton, with Hull City also competing for Norton-Cuffy's signature.
What happened?
The right-back was excluded from Genoa's squad for their friendly against Deportivo La Coruna at the weekend. Manager Daniele De Rossi was asked about this and made it clear that reasons related to a possible transfer are at play. This is why the right-back was rested. The Italian said – via Di Marzio: "There are transfer issues . He's doing well, he's growing a lot, but I've been told there are transfer issues and we've rested him.
Why it matters for Everton
Tuttomercatoweb add more details to the defender's scenario. They note that Everton and Hull City are interested and are ready to offer close to €12m for his signature. This is unlikely to be enough for Genoa, who value the Englishman at €20m. As a result, negotiations are at a standstill but they can take off, depending on when a suitor makes a renewed approach. The outlet clarifies that Juventus, Inter Milan and AS Roma have been linked with Norton-Cuffy. A return to England looks most likely, with Everton 'in particular' keen on him.
What comes next?
Moyes' side desperately need a right-back and Norton-Cuffy would be a very affordable one. He has grown into a reliable up-and-down right-back at Genoa, becoming one of their better players. During his time at Arsenal, he spent several loan deals in the lower divisions of English football. Norton-Cuffy is only 22 and anything around €20m isn't a major risk. As a result, Everton should see this as a big transfer opportunity and make a formal approach.
Everton are currently 13th in the Premier League, with 49 points from 38 games, and are 36 points behind leaders Arsenal. They have scored 47 goals and conceded 50 this season, with a recent form of 0W-2D-3L (LLLDD). Their next fixture is against Ipswich at home on September 19.
